medulla

[/məˈdʌlə/]
nounfemininepl: medullae or medullas
medula
1. The innermost part of an organ or structure, especially referring to the medulla oblongata in the brain
The medulla oblongata controls vital functions such as breathing and heart rate.
A medula oblongata controla funções vitais como respiração e frequência cardíaca.
2. The inner substance of hair or feathers
The medulla of the hair shaft provides structural support.
A medula do fio de cabelo fornece suporte estrutural.
3. The central tissue in plant stems and roots
The medulla of the plant stem consists of parenchyma cells.
A medula do caule da planta é constituída de células parenquimáticas.
4. The inner core of bone marrow
Red blood cells are produced in the medulla of the bone.
As células vermelhas do sangue são produzidas na medula do osso.
In both Brazilian and American medical contexts, 'medulla' is a standard anatomical term taught extensively in medical schools and biology courses. In Brazil, it's commonly used in scientific and medical literature without regional variation. The term carries no colloquial or slang usage in either culture and remains purely technical.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
pithcorecenterinner substance
Antonyms / Antônimos
cortexouter layerperiphery

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
medula
Standard medical and anatomical term used throughout Brazil
São Paulo
medula
Same as general Brazilian Portuguese
Rio de Janeiro
medula
Same as general Brazilian Portuguese
Portugal
medula
European Portuguese uses the same term but may emphasize 'medula espinhal' for spinal cord

Related Words

medullarymedulloblastomabrainstemmarrow

Related Idioms & Phrases

medulla oblongata - the critical brain structure controlling involuntary functions
bone marrow or medulla - essential to life and health
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